Operating Department Practice Degree Guide

Operating Department Practice is a highly specialised and essential part of modern healthcare.

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) work as part of the multidisciplinary surgical team, supporting patients through the three critical phases of surgery: anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery. It is a hands-on, fast-paced profession that requires technical skill, compassion, and the ability to work under pressure.

If you're considering a career in the operating theatre, here's what you need to know about studying Operating Department Practice in the UK - and how it compares to similar roles around the world.

Studying Operating Department Practice in the UK

In the UK, ODPs are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The role is protected by law, meaning only those with approved qualifications and HCPC registration can practise.

Course Structure:

• Most students study a BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice, usually completed over three years.

• Some universities also offer two-year diploma routes or degree apprenticeships.

• The course blends academic study with extensive clinical placements in operating theatres, anaesthesia, and post-operative care units.

What You'll Learn:

• Human anatomy and physiology

• Anaesthetic and surgical techniques

• Infection control and patient safety

• Pharmacology and emergency procedures

• Communication and teamwork in high-pressure environments

Entry Requirements:

• A-levels or equivalent, ideally including Biology or another science

• GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science

• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and occupational health clearance

• A strong interest in surgery, patient care, and teamwork

Funding:

• Eligible students can apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which offers a £5,000 non-repayable grant per year in England.

• Tuition and maintenance loans are available through Student Finance.

After Graduation:

• You must register with the HCPC to practise as an ODP.

• You can work in NHS or private hospitals, including operating theatres, intensive care units, emergency departments, and maternity wards.

• With experience, ODPs can progress into advanced roles such as Surgical Care Practitioner or Anaesthesia Associate, or into education, leadership, or research.

Equivalent Roles and Training in Europe

Across Europe, the role of the ODP does not always exist under the same title or regulatory structure. However, similar responsibilities are performed by professionals such as anaesthetic nurses, perioperative nurses, or operating theatre technicians.

General Overview:

• Roles are often part of a broader nursing education, followed by specialist training in theatre or anaesthesia.

• Clinical responsibilities and scope of practice can vary significantly by country.

• In countries like Ireland, Germany, and the Netherlands, surgical support staff often come from a nursing background and pursue additional certification in perioperative care.

• Courses are typically taught in the national language, and may not be directly equivalent to the UK ODP qualification.

Students interested in working abroad after qualifying in the UK should check the recognition and registration requirements in the destination country.

Studying Similar Programmes in Australia and New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, there is no direct equivalent to the UK ODP role. However, similar responsibilities are undertaken by anaesthetic technicians, perioperative nurses, and operating theatre assistants.

Australia:

• Anaesthetic Technicians are trained via diploma-level courses or university degrees (e.g., Diploma of Anaesthetic Technology or Bachelor of Paramedicine with anaesthetic specialisation).

• Perioperative Nurses are registered nurses who complete postgraduate training in surgical and anaesthetic care.

• Regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

New Zealand:

• Anaesthetic Technicians are recognised health professionals and must be registered with the Medical Sciences Council of New Zealand.

• Training is through a Diploma in Applied Science (Anaesthetic Technology) or Bachelor of Health Science.

• Perioperative care is also a nursing specialism in New Zealand.

The structure is different from the UK's dedicated ODP degree, but clinical roles are similar in practice.

Studying Similar Programmes in Canada

In Canada, the closest equivalent to an ODP is found in roles such as Operating Room Technicians, Surgical Technologists, and Anaesthesia Assistants.

Education and Regulation:

• Surgical technologists complete college diplomas or certificate programmes, often two years in length.

• Anaesthesia Assistants are usually respiratory therapists or nurses with specialised postgraduate training.

• These roles are not nationally regulated, and licensure depends on the province and profession.

Canada does not currently offer a direct match to the UK’s ODP pathway, though many duties overlap within surgical teams.

Studying Similar Programmes in the USA

In the United States, there are distinct roles that align closely with the UK ODP, though typically divided into separate professions.

Relevant Roles:

• Surgical Technologists: Train via associate degree or certificate programmes and assist in the operating room under a surgeon's supervision.

• Anesthesia Technicians or Technologists: Support anaesthesiologists during surgery, trained via specialised certificate programmes.

• Perioperative Nurses (OR Nurses): Registered nurses who specialise in surgical care.

Education and Licensing:

• Programmes are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

• Certification is typically through bodies like the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

• Regulation and job titles vary by state.

The pathway into these roles differs from the UK’s ODP degree route, and there is no single role that combines all aspects of anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery care in one position.

Final Thoughts

Operating Department Practice is a vital and hands-on profession for those drawn to surgical and emergency care. The UK offers a unique, structured degree route into this specialised field, with strong clinical training, recognised professional status, and NHS funding support.

Internationally, while there is no exact equivalent to the ODP role, many countries offer similar pathways under different job titles and regulatory frameworks. When comparing international options, consider:

• Whether surgical and anaesthetic roles are combined or split

• Level and duration of study

• Registration and licensure requirements

• Language and placement opportunities

For students with a passion for surgery, critical care, and patient support, ODP offers an exciting and meaningful healthcare career.